Well I am now the proud owner of two trucks!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! A 51 with a flat 6, and no front fenders. The 52 has the front inner and outer fenders, a cab that is a little better shape than the 51, but the box on the 52 looks like it's from the late 50's. (at least that's what my friends tell me). I have one friend who says to keep the box, because the back fenders are in better shape, but wouldn't that defeat the purpose of restoring the 51/52 back to orginial???? Or because I want to take the engine out of the 51 and put in the 52, does that mean that the truck won't be restored back to orginal?????? I hope you understand my question here. Let me know (I know you will) ((LOL)) if you need more clarification. I'm new at this so I'm not quite sure what I'm doing, but by asking these questions, I'm getting quite the knowledge..and it's cool.

I was talking with my friend who helped me haul the 52 home, and I was telling him about this website. He said that you guys will be my new best friends! Since I can ask any stupid question I want (right????) and get some answers.

I still haven't posted my pictures yet..but trust me..I will. I promise!

Thanks everyone..and hope all have a great day!

 

Hi Pen:
Just tell your friend the only stupid question is the one not asked!!!!!
To me if you restore to orginial that means the engine, trany and all running gear and body parts are the same year, plus the numbers match(engine and trany). The true fun is in having and driving these trucks and enjoying yourself!!!! But that is just my opinion.........what ever that's worth??????
Keep up posted and put up some Pic's
John

 

Hi PT,
You're right, lots of great guys here at FTE. Welcome!

After 50+ years very few of these trucks are "numbers-matching" - not that they really were to start with. Learn all you can and make decisions as you go along. Don't sell off any parts right away: you may decide to change your plans later.

The 51/52 are virtually identical, so it doesn't matter much which parts you use for what. Data plate and rating plates show engine type, but both are easily switched if needed.

Also, check in up at the 48-60 forum - more F series guys hang out there, so your questions might get a quicker response. Truth is tho, a lot of us float back and forth between the forums. Also the flathead engine forum will be helpful to you as you sort thru the details. Bewarned, flathead fever is highly contagious and there is no cure!

 

My 52 F3 (8 foot box) is similar in that it appears to have a newer box, including fenders and tailgate, that was not used until 53. I have an old picture of my truck before it was restored, and it was that way back then. Everything interfaces like it was intended to fit; the running boards run between the front and rear fenders like they should. I am wondering if they cut over to the 53 box during the 52 model year. Any thoughts?

PenTurtle, please post pictures of your 52; I'd love to see it.